Rank Name Service No. Regt. Origin Died Age/D.o.B Buried Additional Information.

Camps

Lt. Col.

Hugonin. Frances Edgar. (CO)

13466

3HAA

Tewkesbury.

16.8.1897

Origin: London. Mrs. F. E. Hugonin, Breedon Rectory, Tewkesbury, Glos. Also: 11 The Cloisters, Windsor Castle, Berks. Date of commission 15.10.15. Captured 15.2.42. Released 30.8.45. Awarded OBE 12.9.46. Travelled out September 1937 on Dilwarra accompanied by family. Camps: Saigon. 9.4.42 - 22.6.43. Camp leader - self. No. 2 Jungle camp Kinsaiyok. 29.6.43 - 20.7.43. Camp leader - self. Kinsaiyok. 24.7.43 13.344. Lt. Col. Lilley. Tamuang 14.3.44 - 23.1.45." " " Kanburi 23.1.45 - 16.8.45. Lt. Col. Swinton. Interrogation certificate says Lt. Col. Hugonin was interrogated 15.9.45. Copies of the interrogation papers have been sent to E. Comp SACSEA. Interrogating officer B. G. Neville. From Bdr. W. J. Brown 2036783. "Col. Hugonin protested about the shortage of food etc to the Japanese. They threatened to shoot him if he protested again. When he did protest again they took him away with a loaded rifle. He scorned them while the jap took aim. The guard lost his nerve first. This happened at Kinsaiyok No.2 jungle camp, Thailand in 1943. I witnessed it myself." From Gnr Cheminant 5723141. “Col. Hugonin sat in cockpits of new jap fighters, smashing instrument panels with his walking stick whilst ORs kept lookout for jap sentries (Saigon docks)”. From Gnr Cocks 6HAA. "About 2 days after we arrived at Jungle camp No. 2 on 28.6.43 Lt. Col. Hugonin was put up against a tree to be shot. This was done because a working party was a few men short. Having witnessed this, I think the way Lt. Col. Hugonin acted during this was beyond anything I had seen. He was quite cool and collected." From L/Bdr Cooke. 5 S/L: Lt. Col Hugonin refused to allow men to be beaten and took the beatings himself. From Gnr. Curran 5 S/L: Col. Hugonin (Saigon 42-43) organised escape and resistance generally. Courageous acts: Col. Hugonin proved himself an officer and an Englishman. From Sgt. Mutimer. 5 S/L: "We worked all night pretty well one night in a monsoon. In the morning, our blankets were wet and our shorts were wet and everything. And our Colonel said "No, the men aren't going to work today. They're going to dry their clothes." The japs said, "Oh no they're not", and he said "yes they are". He was a marvellous man, Colonel Hugonin. He protested to the japs, and he said "I'm not sending these men out to work. They're staying in camp". And they tied him up to the wire, and sent us out. And 3 of the Jocks, from the Gordon Highlanders, went up and asked the japs to take him off and put them in his place. We all had tremendous respect for him. The japs just laughed at them. Completely ignored them. Left him tied to the wire. He said, "Don't worry boys, don't take any notice of this shower". He treated them with utter contempt. In fact the first Christmas, he stood on a heap of earth where they were going to dig some toilets. And he gave us all a talk on Christmas day, wished us a merry Christmas and all the rest of it. And seated in front of him were all the Japanese. And he stood up and said "I'm standing on the site of a new benjo, surrounded by a lot more benjos", and he was referring to the jap of course. We burst out laughing, he said it so calmly, you know. And at the first reunion dinner at the Three Horseshoes in Tottenham Court Rd in 1947 he said, "Well, I've got to make a speech to you again, and I'm missing the benjos" - he came out with it all those years later. Wonderful man. Wonderful". From Gnr Goff 5 S/L: Our work was contrary to Red Cross rules and regulations. We had to load and unload all sorts of war supplies, which included petrol and ammunition. Our CO complained, but the japs didn’t give a damn. They pulled out machine guns and we had no choice. Lt. Col. Hugonin told them it

would be remembered, and they would have to answer when the allies won the war. This got the japs so mad they beat him up on the spot, and also the interpreter Major Close. Our officers did not have to work but they were ordered out on works parties and told if we did not work hard enough or well enough they would be beaten up in front of us. They tried to humiliate our officers but every one of them was an officer and a gentleman and we had absolute faith in them, especially our CO who was really a most amazing man. He stood up to the japs so many times, and he didn’t give a damn about them. The japs had the idea that they would make us sign a paper saying that we would not escape. Our Colonel said that this was not on, that it was the duty of every British soldier to try and escape and return to his lines, but the Japs would have none of it, so eventually they said they would stop our food if we didn’t sign. So the Colonel said “well, we’re all under duress, but you can sign each other’s. You can write down what you bloody well like”. He said “I don’t care if you’re all Errol Flynns, Clark Gables or Mickey Mouses, or whoever you are, but for Christ’s sake write down something on a bit of paper”. And the japs were well delighted. I don’t know all the names but hardly anyone put their own name to it. None could be held to it but we got our food back again. From Gnr. Cotton. 5 S/L: " A number of Zero plane fuselages were stacked along the spur line awaiting shipment and our CO, Lt. Col. Hugonin, would stroll along prodding them with his walking stick and saying 'Look at them, they're rubbish, my stick goes through them like paper'. From Gnr. Crane 35LAA: The best officer and most courageous man was Colonel Hugonin. From Gnr Dawson 6HAA: Saigon - Lt. Col. Hugonin refused to let us sign forms to say we would not escape although they threatened to shoot him and lock him up. We signed them to get him out and he put 'UNDER DURESS' on all the forms. From Gnr Chadbone 35LAA: Courageous acts- the entering of a gowdown at Saigon by a man named Murray 6HAA and taking a breach from an English gun. Aided by Col. Hugonin RA. From Gnr. Greathurst 5 S/L: A large amount of minor sabotage of Japanese war material was done by Lt. Col. Hugonin 3HAA RA at Saigon. From S.Sgt Jeapes 6HAA: The attitude of Col. Hugonin RA with the Japs was magnificent. He hindered them at every step, where possible using them to the advantage of his troops. From L/Bdr. Pinnington 6HAA: Lt. Col. Hugonin was beaten, put up against a tree, threatened to be bayoneted and shot if he did not supply works party. He said to Korean guard "you have not the guts to do it". From L. Sgt. Pratten 5 S/L: The attitude of Lt. Col. Hugonin towards the Japanese army at all times was outstanding. From Gnr. Salter 35LAA: Col Hugonin in Saigon used to walk around work parties and poke his stick into anything he could destroy. Admired by all men in POW camps. From Sgt. H.V.Smith: Lt.Col. Hugonin, beaten and put against a tree with Korean guard threatening to bayonet him, he said to the guard "you haven't the guts to do it".

Maj.

Greensitt. Joseph Ivison

31111

3 HAA 11bty

Borrowash.

4.9.04

Origin: Whitley Bay. Father: Joseph Ivison. Mother: Daisy. Mrs. J. I. Greensitt, "Garfield", Borrowash, Derbyshire. Captured 15.2.42. Released 4.9.45.

Camps: Saigon 10.4.42 – 22.6.43 Lt. Col Hugonin. No. 2 Jungle camp Kinsaiyok 30.6.43 – 25.7.43 Lt Col Hugonin Kinsaiyok 26.7.43 – 6.3.44 Lt. Col Lilley Tarsoe 7.3.44 – 28.3.44 Lt Col Knights Royal Norfolks. Tamuang 29.3.44 – 23.1.45 “ “ “ Kanburi 24.1.45 – 2.9.45 Lt Col Toosey

Maj.

McWade. James Reginald.

169549

6HAA 3bty

Liverpool.

7.1.16

Father: Thomas. Mother: Henrietta. Mrs. V. H. McWade, 17 Holbeck St., Anfield, Liverpool. Also 107 Utting Avenue, Anfield, Liverpool. Enlisted 8.1.34. Captured 15.2.42. Released 30.8.45. Camps: Saigon 10.4.42. – 22.6.43 Lt. Col Hugonin. Kinsaiyok 29.6.43 – 30.7.43 “ “ “ Klian Klai 7.8.43 – 10.12.43 Maj. Dayrell RA Tonchan 11.12.43 – 16.4.44 “ “ Tamuang 17.4.44 – 22.1.45 Lt. Col Knights Royal Norfolks. Kanburi 22.1.45 – 1.8.45 Lt Col Toosey RA Escapes: Bdr. Baxter and Gnr Cassidy 3HAA. The above attempted escape at Saigon. I do not know for certain any of the particulars of their escape but I was informed by Lt. Col. F. E. Hugonin RA, their commanding officer, that they were betrayed by the French military at Saigon to the Jap military police. They were both executed. Sabotage: Numerous acts of sabotage were carried out by nearly all POWs in Saigon eg.removing breech blocks from Jap artillery, dropping Jap ammunition in the river, putting sand and sugar in petrol drums, and breaking hundreds of packing cases. Courageous acts: Under the heading of courageous acts Major McWade refers to an attached statement in respect of No. 890940 Gnr Murray J.P. 3bty 6HAA Regt RA. Statement re No. 890940 Gnr Murray J.P. 3rd HAA Bty RA, 6HAA Regt. RA. During the whole of the time the a/m was a POW he showed great initiative in procuring medical supplies not otherwise obtainable from the Japanese. Great personal risk and threat of severe punishment if he was discovered did not hinder his activities. I wish to recommend him for the highest possible merit. Signed: Major J. R. McWade 3rd HAA Bty RA.

Maj.

Stibey. Arthur Robert Charles.

40536

5 S/L 13bty

Dorking.

19.5.09

Origin: Croydon. Mother: Emmie. Mrs A. R. C. Stibey, Humble House, West Humble, Dorking, Surrey. Also: 36 High St., Croydon, Surrey. Enlisted June 1938. Captured 15.2.42. Released 4.9.45.

Camps: 15.2.42 - 4.4.42. Changi. GOC Malaya. Lt. Col. RAD Clarke RA. 10.4.42 - 22.6.43. Saigon. Lt. Col. Hugonin. 29.6.43 - 20.8.43. Jungle Camp Siam (Kinsaiyok). Lt. Col. Hugonin, succeeded by self. 21.8.43 - 12.5.44. Chungkai. Lt. Col. Owtram. RA. 14.5.44 - -.6.44. Tamuang. Lt. Col. Knights. Royal Norfolks. -.6.44 - 4-45 Nakom Paton. Lt. Col. Sainter RA. 4.45 - 31.7.45. Kanchanaburi. Lt. Col. Toosey RA. 5.8.45 - 17.8.45. Nakom Nayok. " " " Sabotage: "Sabotage was a general practice among all ranks while working in Saigon docks, consisting in the main of the removal of small parts from breeches of Japanese guns, and captured POWs draining off aviation spirit and petrol from 60 gallon drums in the dump, removal of leads etc from vehicles and a host of other minor acts." Additional: Mrs. Daphne Hill of the Queens Royal Surrey Regt museum, Clandon Park, Guildford, wrote to the Royal Artillery Regt Museum saying that among the papers of the late Major A R C Stibey TD were found some photographs and a copy of a report on the Singapore campaign. Major Stibey was serving with 4 Quee'ns before it was converted to 63 S/L Regt RA - later posted to 13 Bty 5 S/L Regt, toured in Malaya L May 1941. She thinks he went out to Singapore to help train Malaya personnel in the use of searchlights. "As far as I remember Arthur Stibey is mentioned in a book possibly called 'Dragons are extra' by Basil Peacock. This told of the setting up of S/L locations in the UK, his job in Malaya and life as a jap POW." 13 S/L Battery 5 Searchlight Regiment. RA. Report on Singapore Campaign. 1. It is emphasised that precise dates cannot be noted as all records were lost either during the campaign or during the subsequent activity. 2. Searchlight role (a) The first jap raid on Singapore on 8 Dec 1942 was engaged just after 0400 hrs. It was illuminated as it passed over Changi, flying west at about 17000 feet, and remained illuminated until it split (over Tengah) when the formation which turned south to Singapore was lost. (The first detatchment to engage this raid, and illuminate it, was one composed entirely of Malays.) (b) Subsequent night raids, which did not reappear for about 3 weeks, were all engaged successfully. I cannot remember the dates but I can remember that at one time, out of 24 raids, 17 were fully illuminated. One engagement is worth noting. Three formations of jap bombers, at different heights and on different courses, were illuminated simultaneously, sufficient illuminatin being provided for each formation. The skill with which this raid was engaged bore witness to the high state of technical efficiency of the searchlight Regiment. (c) Scattered raids continued to be engaged and Battery HQ continued at Changi with the secondary job of reporting and plotting raids to G.O.R. (d) On some date before February 11th 1942, orders had been received to form "forts" in conjunction with the local Infantry Brigade. 3. Infantry role. (a) On Feb. 9th orders were received to evacuate Changi, and Bty HQ moved to a site at 10th Mile Stone, Changi Road. Here it came to some extent under orders of Cdr. 2nd. M 1 Bde. 3 troops were concentrated here on 11th Feb, the 4th troop under Lt. Henderson concentrated at Serangoon village under the command of 54 Bde, 18 Div. On this day, the battery ceased its AA role and S/L equipment was rendered unserviceable. In many cases it was totally destroyed. (i.e where bomb damage had already started the work). The battery less 1 Tp came entirely under the orders of 2nd M.1 Bde. (b) On the evening of the 12th Feb, two Troops of the battery, under my personal command, were ordered to cover the final evacuation of the Changi area, the remainder of the battery being ordered to report to HQ2. M.1. Bde in Singapore, under the command of Capt Gracey. When I arrived in Singapore on the morning of 13th Feb, I was ordered to take my Battery to the St. Michaels Road area, which was done before dawn.

(c) On the evening of 13 February, the Battery was placed under command of Lt. Col. Holmes, 1st Manchesters, and ordered to a position on MacPherson Road. This was done, and the battery was in position by midnight. (d) We remained in position until the evening of Sunday 15 February, when orders were received to collect arms and ammunition and to concentrate in the locality. During these last two days, the Battery was subjected to shell and mortar fire; one man only, however, was killed. We were never called upon to engage the enemy. 4. The Malays. (a) On the whole, the Malays in my Battery behaved very well. Many were recruits of only a few months service and bore their experiences well. There were some desertions, but chiefly from those who had not been provided with rifles (there were none). They took the transfer from AA to Infantry role with enthusiasm and behaved well under fire. (b) Their work on searchlights was first class; never afraid to expose the beam keen and enthusiastic to illiminate the target. Their sites were invariably perfectly kept.

Major RA Commanding 13 S/L Bty, 5 S/L Regt.

Capt.

Ellis. Eric Leslie

RAMC 11 Ind. Div.

131693

Harrogate

23.11.14

Father: Charles Robert. Mother: Elizabeth Ellen. 2 Norfolk Rd, Harrogate, Yorks. Enlisted 10.5.40. Captured 15.2.42. Released 30.8.45. Camps: Changi 15.2.42 - 4.4.42. Saigon 10.4.42 - 2.5.42. Lt. Col. Hugonin. Hanoi 2.5.42 - 10.11.42 Approx. Capt. G. B. Mattey. 35LAA. Saigon 13.11.42 - 22.6.43. Lt. Col. Hugonin. Kinsaiyok. 1.7.43 - 1.8.43. Lt. Col. Hugonin. Krian Krai 7.8.43 - 10.12.43 approx. Capt. J. Hands. AIF. Tonchan 10.12.43 - 17.4.44. Capt. Hands. Tha Muang 17.4.44 - 20.10.44. Lt. Col. Knights. Tamajo. 22.10.44 - 31.12.44. Maj. P. J. White RA } Tha Muang 2.1.45 - 15.6.44 Lt. Col. Knights. } SMO W.G.Harvey RAMC Pratchai. 22.8.45 - WO. Christopher RA. Coast Regt.} Escapes: Lt. M. G. Hughett USNAF - said to have escaped by plane to Chungking from Saigon. Other matters: Medical and other aid given by residents of Saigon 1942 - 43. From Bdr. Tait RA: Courageous acts: Capt. Ellis RAMC refused to send sick men to work despite constant beatings - No.2 jungle camp Kinsaiyok June-July 1943.

Capt.

Gardner. Gerald Samuel.

170168

5 S/L 13bty

Egham.

13.7.1896

Origin: Bastlow, Rutland. Mrs. K. E. Gardner, 10 Dalsham Avenue, Egham, Surrey. Enlisted 6.2.39 (TA) Captured 15.2.42. Released 4.9.45. No camps listed. Escape attempts: Baxter and Cassidy 3HAA. No organisation to assist these escapees is known. At large 36 hours. Imprisoned on recapture in Cholon gaol, Indo-China. Subsequently reported by the Japanese to have been executed.

Sabotage: Of motor vehicles, 24 pounder guns, stores etc, were carried out by British personnel while working on Saigon docks.

Capt.

Hughes. Kenneth Mitchell

69492

3HAA

Manchester.

23.9.45. Rangoon Scrub Typhus.

32 10.2.13

Rangoon 1 A 15

Origin: Great Budworth, Cheshire. Father: Arthur Mitchell. Mother: Emily Hughes of Hale, Cheshire. Mrs. K. M. Hughes, 'Ryecroft', West Bank, Nr. Lancaster

Capt.

Ligertwood. Charles Peter Stanley -(Adj)

3 HAA

Milverton.

8.7.13

Origin: S. Africa. Father: Charles Edward. Mother: Hilda Margaret. Mr. C. E. Ligertwood, Week Hayes, Milverton, Somerset. Or: Norfolk Club, Norwich. Enlisted October 1938. Captured 15.2.42. Released 4.9.45. Camps: Changi 15.2.42 - 4.4.42. Gen Percival/Gen Keith Simmonds. Saigon FIC. 10.4.42 - 22.6.43. Lt. Col. Hugonin. No. 2 Jungle Camp. Kinsaiyok, 1.7.43 - 16.7.43. Lt. Col. Hugonin. Kinsaiyok Main 17.7.43 - 20.3.44. Lt. Col. Lilley. Tha Muang 21.3.44 - 21.1.45. Lt. Col. Toosey. Det Ldr. Capt Keen RA. Kanchanaburi 22.1.45 - 6.8.45. Lt. Col. Toosey. Det Ldr Capt. Keen. Nakom Nayok 11.8.45 - end. Lt. Col. Toosey. Det Ldr Lt. Col. Lilley. Escape attempts: Lt. Hughett US Air Force from Saigon POW hospital on 20.12.44 - 25.12.44. Gnr Bancroft 11bty 3HAA, from Saigon POW camp. ? date Gnr Purcell 3bty 6HAA, from Saigon POW camp. ? date. Other than the fact that the above all made their way out of their camps, nothing is known except that the Free French Saigon POW Assistance movement assisted them. Never seen again by any POW. Bdr Baxter, Gnr Cassidy, attempted escape from Saigon main camp in 1942. Both recaptured and killed by Japanese. For full particulars of this crime refer to Lt. Col. Hugonin RA O/C 3HAA Rgt. RA. Escape committees: Lt. Hughett, US Air Force, Philipine Command. Saigon escape 26.12.44. Assisted by Monsieur Goddard of Saigon and M. Simon Petrie, and other unknown by name but all Saigon French. Sabotage: Japanese 9"siege gunin Saigon dock rendered unserviceable by Staff Sgt Artificer Veitch 3HAA Regt RA in 1942. He removed protective packing and covering from the breech of the piece and removed essential pieces of the firing mechanism and threw them into the Saigon river. He then replaced the packing and cover of the piece which was subsequently shipped away by Japanese without discovery of the sabotage. Courageous acts: Lt Hughett US Air Force, S/Sgt White UA Air Force, S/Sgt Stoddard UA Air Force, S/St Heald US Air Force, Gnr Bancroft 3HAA Regt RA, Gnr Balhatchet 3HAA Regt RA, Gnr Purcell 6HAA Regt Ra. All risked their lives in 1942 in night excursions from Saigon main camp in 1943 & 44 in order to obtain medical supplies from French POW assistance movement. As camp adjutant I was informed of all these excursions and their results. Other matters: Very courageous assistance was rendered to POWs at Saigon by numerous French. Only a few of their names are known to me personally.

Mr. & Mme Pierre Milet. He is secretary to the French legation in Bangkok, and he and his English wife continually risked their lives in assisting POWs, both in French Indo-China and in Thailand. They assisted in getting away

nominal roll of all Saigon POWs in May 1942.

Capt.

McDonald. James.

322043 222043

3HAA 30bty

Petersfield.

5.5.08 5.5.09

Origin: Ayr. Father: Ian. Mr. J. MacDonald, Horndean, Portsmouth. Enlisted 10.8.27. Captured 15.2.42. Released 30.8.45. Camps: Changi 15.2.42 - 4.4.42. Saigon. 10.4.42 - 22.6.43. Lt. Col. Hugonin. Kinsaiyok 1.7.43 - 2.2.44. Lt. Col. Lilley. 1/5 Sherwood Forresters. Tha Muang Feb 44 - Jan 45. Lt. Col. Knights. Kanchanaburi Jan 45 - Aug 45. Lt. Col. Knights. Nakom Nayok. Jan 45 - Aug 45. Lt. Col. Toosey. Escapes: Gnr Cassidy & Bdr Baxter escaped from prison camp, Saigon, 1942. Recaptured by Japanese, executed and buried in Annamite cemetery in Saigon. Record of above held by Lt. Col. Hugonin. FE. 3 Heavy AA Regt, and passed to ex P/W Std, Bangkok.

Capt.

Pierce. John Edward (?Maj)

74538

3HAA 11bty

Tiverton.

4.5.18

Father: Edward Gordon. Mother: Evelyn. Mr. E. G. Pierce, Cowley Lodge, Tiverton, Devon. Captured 15.2.42. Released 14.9.45. Survived sinking of Kachidoki Maru. No questionnaire completed.

Lt.

Arthur. Edward Reginald.

190440

3HAA

Torquay

28.9.07

Father: Albert Edward. Mother: Edith Kate. Chyandower, Bampfylde Rd, Torquay, Devon. Enlisted 5.9.22. Captured 15.2.42. Released. 4.9.45 Camps: Changi 17.2.42. Lt. Gen Percival. Saigon. – 4.42. Lt. Col Hugonin. Tarso Hospital 2.8.43. Lt. Col Harvey RAMC. Nakom Paton Hospital 19.4.44. Lt. Col Coates AAMC. Kanburi 26.1.45. Lt. Col Toosey. RA

.

Nakom Nyok 14.8.45. Escapes: Mentions Baxter and Cassidy – was told that they had been shot and buried. Subsequently, 2 graves in the cemetery were pointed out as belonging to them.

Lt.

Broadbent. Gerald Bottomley.

77799

3 HAA 29bty

Ashton – u – Lyne.

10.11.11

Father: Ernest. Mother: Sarah Elizabeth. Mrs. E. Broadbent, 'Glemay', Smallshore, Ashton under Lyne, Lancs. Also: E. Broadbent, Fish & Co., T.N.Ashton 1524 Clarence Arcade, Ashton-under-Lyne, Lancs. Enlisted 25.10.38. Captured 15.2.42. Released 30.8.45. No camps listed. Escape attempts: Baxter & Cassidy reached French barracks, but were handed over to japs. They were eventually executed by the kempi. Sabotage: Saigon docks - Officers and men destroyed firing mechanism of 6 British PDR field guns. Put sand and water in many thousands of gallons of aircraft petrol. Wasted large quantities of petrol and oil by removing bungs from drums. Broke carboys of acid in hold of ship about to sail, and covered acid with tents and other inflammable material. Dropped vital machinery parts into the water whilst unloading. Damaging of crated aircraft by thrusting crowbars through instruments. Removing electrical parts from lorry engines whilst loading. Throwing into water at night 25 pdr ammo charges and hand grenades. Throwing into water large quantities of tin ingots. Courageous acts: Bancroft and Purcell for leaving camp by night and bringing in essential medical supplies. Many French people did all they could for POWs at great risk (names from Capt. C. P. S. Ligertwood 3HA. RA) From Sgt. Shand: At Kinsaiyok jungle camp, as the result of a severe beating up, Lt. Broadbent, RA, was made to move a huge rock over the side of a precipice. In doing so, he fell over the side, followed by rock. Bdrs. Trainer and Soulsby, without a moment's hesitation as to their own personal risk or consequences, jumped over the side and saved Lt. Broadbent from certain death by pulling him clear of the rock. As a result of this Bdr Trainer was an invalid for the remainder of his time as a POW due to a cut which turned into an ulcer. Approx date 20.7.43.

Lt.

George. William Norman Bruce

155225

5 S/L 315bty

Hazelmere.

3.12.15

Origin: Bombay. Mother: Isabella Elizabeth, St Mary Convalescent Home, Hazelmere, Surrey. Also: C/O Lloyds Bank Ltd., Farnham. Surrey. Enlisted 22.1.40 Captured 15.2.42. Released 30.8.42 Camps: Changi 15.2.42 - 4.4.42. Saigon 16.4.42 -22.6.43. Lt. Col. Hugonin Kinsaiyok 29.6.43 - 31.7.43. Lt. Col. Hugonin. Klian Klai 7.8.43 - 10.12.43. Capt Hands. Det/block leader - Maj. J. R. McWade. Tonchan 11.12.43 - 16.4.44. Capt Hands. " " " " " " Tamuang 17.4.44 - 22.1.45. Lt. Col. Knights. " " Lt. Col. F. E. Hugonin. Kanchanaburi. 23.1.45 - 5.8.45. Lt. Col. Toosey. Nakom Nayok. 11.8.45 - 25.8.45. Lt. Col. Toosey. Pratchai 25.8.45 - 11.9.45. Lt. Col. Lilley. Dates between camps were occupied in travelling.

Escapes: Bdr. Baxter 3HAA Gnr. Cassidy 3 HAA. Escaped from Saigon POW camp in May 1942 - missed rendezvous arranged with French soldier and reported to French military barracks where they were fed and given railway tickets to Hanoi - about 25 - 30 kilometers out of Saigon the train was boarded by Japanese military police who arrested the POWs. They were brought back to Saigon POW camp where they were confined and tortured for 12 hours and then taken away to the gaol at Saigon. Some six weeks later the Japanese informed Lt. Col. Hugonin RA who was in command of the POWs that the men had been executed, and two unmarked graves were found in the POW section of Saigon cemetery. Sabotage: Saigon - whilst in charge of working parties - puncturing of severa hundred of oil and petrol barrels. Destruction of equipment. Removal of parts from aircraft and transport, ammunition thrown into the river. Siam - Deliberately shoddy construction of bridges and embankments on the Siam - Burma railway. Courageous acts: 1. Lt. Col. H. H. Lilley (Sherwood Forresters) obtained money and medical supplies from outside sources and was subsequently taken away by Japanese military police for these activities. He was subjected to considerable torture - but did not disclose the names or whereabouts of his contacts. 2. Major Mackenzie and other officers operated secret wireless receiving sets at Wampo, Kinsaiyok, Tamuang, Kanchanaburi in Siam. Other matters: Lt. Col. A. E. Knights MC TD (4 Royal Norfolks) and Lt. Col. H. H. Lilley TD (Sherwood Forresters) constantly attempted to improve conditions in their camps by resisting Japanese demands and pressing for various amenities. By their efforts money and medical supplies were secretly obtained from outside sources. From Gnr Huitson: “Lt.George always kept our spirits up and took beatings for us.” From L/Sgt Hanley 3/6 HAA: Lt. George, when in charge of working parties, would argue with the japs for the best conditions possible for the men under him. He would have struck one jap but the jap went off. He was always acting hostile towards japs. From Sgt. Shattock 6HAA.: Lt. George 3HAA at Saigon, looked after us conscientiously during the whole of POW life.

Lt.

Gibbins. Leslie Bernard

169661

5 S/L 13bty

Lewisham.

25.12.19

Mother: Edith Millicent. Mrs. E. M. Gibbins, 55 Albacore Crescent, Lewisham, London. S. E. 13 Enlisted March 1937. Captured 15.2.42. Released 4.9.45 Repatriation questionnaire gives service no 166801 Camps: Changi 17.2.42 – 4.4.42 Saigon 10.4.42 – 22.6.43 Lt. Col Hugonin Tarsoe June 28-29. 1943 Lt. Col Knights. Kinsaiyok 1.July – 31 Aug 43. Lt. Col Hugonin. Chungkai 1 Sep 43 – Mar 44 Col Outram RA Tamuang Mar – Aug 44 Lt. Col Knights.

Tamajao Mar – Dec 44 Maj White RA Kanburi Jan – Aug 45 Col Toosey RA Nakom Nayok 10 Aug – 30 Aug 45 Col Toosey. Sabotage: Unscrewed bungs from petrol drums in dumps so they drained out. Removed odd parts from Jap vehicles and tool kits. Smashed any glass containers etc when moving Japanese stores. Damaged aircraft on the docks at Saigon.

Lt.

Short. Leonard Alan.

160440

3HAA 29bty

Bispham.

25.4.21

Origin: Stockton on Tees. Father: Frederick McDonally. Mother: Lavance Anne. Mr. F. M. Short, 10 Bethell Ave., Bispham, Blackpool, Lancs. Enlisted 28.4.39. Captured 15.2.42. Released 4.9.45. Camps: Changi 15.2.42 - 4.4.42. Saigon 10.4.42 - 22.6.43. Lt. Col. Hugonin. Kinsaiyok 6.7.43 - 27.2.44. Lt. Col. Lilley. Tha Muang 28.2.44 - 22.2.45. Lt. Col. Knights. Kanchanaburi 22.2.45 - 28.8.45. Lt. Col. Toosey. Escape attempts: Bdr. Baxter & Gnr. Cassidy. Sabotage: Sabotage of MT oil and gasoline at Saigon by myself and others in my Regiment.

Lt.

Shrives. Sidney H.

148105

6HAA 3bty

Southgate.

12.7.11

Origin: Stamford Hill, London. Father: Sidney Ernest. Mrs. S. H. Shrives, "Betroy", Summit Way, Southgate, London. Enlisted June 1936 (TA) Captured 15.2.42. Released 4.9.45. Camps: Changi 17.2.42 - 4.4.42. Lt. Gen Percival. Saigon 10.4.42 - 22.6.43. Lt. Col. Hugonin. Kinsaiyok No. 2. 30.6.43 - Aug 43. Lt. Col. Hugonin. Kinsaiyok Aug 43. Lt. Col. Hugonin. Tha Soe Aug 43 - Apr 44. Lt. |Col. Knights. Tha Muang Apr 44 - Nov 44. Lt. Col. Knights. Tha Khanun. Nov 44 - Dec 44. Major Howard. Tha Muang Dec 44 - Jan 45. Lt. Col. Knights. Kanchanaburi Jan 45 - Lt. Col. Toosey. Nakom Nayok. 10.8.45 - 1.9.45. Lt. Col. Toosey. Sabotage: At Saigon docks, I put sand into aeroplane petrol tanks and destroyed electrical equipment on crated planes passing through the docks. Damaged M.T. by sand in petrol tanks, removing electrical equipment and blocking oil feed pipes, loosening caps on petrol barrels at night so that petrol ran out, breaking Japanese unit rations, ie rice sacks, soya bean sauce etc.

Lt.

Soar.William Godfrey

148638

6HAA 3bty

Twickenham.

11.11.43 at Tarsoe

Amoebic dysentery

29 12.11.13

Kan. 4 C 55

Origin: Uttoxeter. Father: Harry Godfrey. Mother: Ethel. Wife: Bernadine Patricia. Mrs. G. Soar, 62 Waldegrave Park, Twickenham, Middx .

Lt.

Tegetmeier. Trevor

78299

3HAA 11bty

Porthcawl.

9.8.16

Origin: Golders Green. Father: Norman. Mother: Gladys Mary. Mr. N. Tegetmeier, "Marley", Severn Rd, Porthcawl, S. Wales. Enlisted 1.11.38 (TA). Captured 15.2.42. Released 4.9.45. Camps: Changi 15.2.42 - 4.4.42 Saigon 10.4.42 - 22.6.43 Lt. Col. Hugonin. Kinsaiyok (jungle) 30.6.43 - 2.8.43 Lt. Col. Hugonin. Tha Soe 2.8.43 - 18.7.44 Lt. Col. Knights. Royal Norfolks. Koncoita 18.7.44 - 27.9.44. Lt. Col. McKellar RA. Kanchanaburi 12.2.45 - 22.7.45 Lt. Col. Toosey RA. Escape attempts: Bdr. Baxter & Gnr. Cassidy - recaptured after about 36 hours. Sabotage: During the time we were at Saigon, on numerous occasions men working in the docks did considerable damage to guns and motor vehicles.

Lt.

Walker. Dennis Vivian Campbell

132933

3HAA 29bty

Gorleston.

3.8.12

Father: Richard Stanley. Mother: Phyllis Muriel. Mr. R. S. Walker, 8 Bernard Rd, Gorleston on Sea, Suffolk. Enlisted 3.9.39 (TA) Captured 15.2.42. Released 30.8.45. Camps: Changi 15.2.42 - 4.4.42 Lt. Gen Percival. Saigon. 10.4.42 - 22.6.43. Lt. Col. Hugonin. Kinsaiyok. Jul 43 - Mar 44. Lt. Col. Lilley. 1/5 Sherwood Forresters. Tha muang. Mar 44 - Jan 45. Lt. Col. Knights. 4Btn. Royal Norfolks. Kanchanaburi. Jan 45 - 5.8.45. Lt. Col. Toosey 135 Field Regt. RA Nakom Nayok 5.8.45 - 15.8.45. Lt. Col. Toosey 135 Field Regt. RA. Pratchai. 15.8.45 - 10.9.45. Lt. Col. Lilley. Escape attempts: Bdr. Baxter and Gnr Cassidy, both 29bty 3HAA, RA. With the aid of a French soldier garrisoned in Saigon, the above attempted to escape in May 1942. They succeeded in leaving the POW camp undiscovered at night and made for a prearranged rendezvous in civilian clothes. Unable to contact this Frenchman, they reported to the French barracks where food and railway tickets to Hanoi were given them. About 30km away they were caught by Japanese military police and brought to the POW camp, having been

badly handled. They were subjected to torture and confined.The following day they were removed, without Lt. Col. Hugonin being allowed to see them, to Saigon military prison where they suffered considerably from starvation and maltreatment. About 2 months later they were executed and their two rough graves discovered in the POW section of Saigon cemetery. Sabotage: While employed as labourers in Saigon docks, POWs were forced to handle large quantities of Japanese war material.Numerous opportunities occurred whilst engaged on this work to tamper and damage transport, ammunition and petrol. Medical supplies and stores of food were also broken into and, wherever possible, sabotage carried out. This continued during our work on the Burma-Thai railway and Japanese small arms in many cases rendered useless. Courageous acts: Secret wireless sets were operated throughout in Malaya, Siam, and in Saigon news and other assistance given by M. Lienard (ie 'Sparks' FIC) Cie Eaux Electricite, at great personal risk. Wireless sets were operated in Siam at various camps under extreme difficulties and grave risk. Major M. McKenzie, 125 Regt. RA, Bdr Squires 148 Field Regt RA, at Wampo, Kinsaiyok and Tha Muang. Lts. Webber, Malayan Volunteers,moperated at Chungkai, Kanchanaburi and Nakom Nayok. Other matters: Lt. Hughett American Air Force. S/Sgt White American Air Force. S/Sgt Stoddard. American Air Force. S/Sgt Heald American Air Force. GNR. Bancroft 11bty 3HAA RA Gnr Purcell 3bty 6HAA RA This team performed excellent work and obtained large supplies of medical stores from the French as well as money at great risk of life. Their endeavours saved many lives. From Gnr. Connolly 3/6HAA Courageous acts: At Saigon, Lt. Col Hugonin was attacked by a jap soldier, but Lt. Walker stepped between them and took the full force of a rifle and bayonet used as a club across the head, receiving a nasty injury. From L/Bdr Greenwood 5 S/L: When the jap (POW camp) Sgt was about to strike Lt. Col. Hugonin with a drawn sword, Lt. Walker stepped in front and was prepared to take punishment in place of the Colonel, who was later placed in confinement. This happened at POW camp opposite the docks in Saigon, FIC. From Gnr James 29bty. 3HAA: I was told that Lt. Walker, one of the RA officers, jumped in front of Col. Hugonin and took a nasty blow on the side of the head from a rifle butt. The blow was intended to strike the Colonel. It was aimed by one of the guards. This happened about 1942. From Gnr. Lewis 3HAA: Courageous acts: Whilst Lt. Col. Hugonin was being beaten up Lt. D.V.C. Walker intervened and was hit on the head with the butt of a rifle.

2 Lt.

Balfour. Robert Edward Paton.

166295

3/6 HAA

Angus.

21.8.12

Origin: Bushey Heath. G A B Esq, Mall, Montrose, Angus, Scotland. Enlisted 1.4.39. Captured 15.2.42. Rel. 4.9.45. Camps: Saigon FIC. 10.4.42 - 10.6.43. Lt. Col Hugonin.

Kinsaiyok. 1.7.43 - 15.8.43. " " " Tarsoe 15.8.43 - 16.3.44. Lt. Col. Knights. Tamuan 20.4.44 - 20.1.45. " " " Kanburi 20.1.45 - 5.8.45. Lt. Col. Toosey. Escape attempts: Baxter & Cassidy escaped from Saigon POW camp in May 1942. French police provided tickets to Hanoi, 25 - 30 K from Saigon. French military authorities removed these BORs from the train and handed them over to the Japanese authorities. The japs refused to state their whereabouts or conditions. Later, 2 unmarked graves were seen in Saigon POW cemetery. Sabotage: Oil drums punctured. Vehicles damaged. Jap medical supplies stolen. Ammunition thrown into Saigon river. Courageous acts: On many occasions Lt. Col. Lilley (Sherwood Foresters) withstood Japanese demands and obtained medical supplies outside camp. He was removed from Kanburi camp by Japanese secret police, beaten up, thrown by jap wrestlers for half an hour. Tied in kneeling position for 24 hours saga - beaten. Other matters: Lt. Col. Knights (4th Royal Norfolks) and Lt. Col. Lilley (Sherwood Foresters), by their energy and activities, considerably improved the lot of POWs in their camps. By resisting Japanese demands, constantly pressing for improved conditions, obtaining money and medical supplies from outside sources. From notes of L/Sgt Duffy 850136: "Whilst at Tarsoe(1943-44) this officer looked after the sick men of 3rd & 6th HAA Rgts like a mother. He gave all of his clothing away to the sick, leaving himself with just a towel around his middle and a pair of wooden clogs. Lt Balfour at the time had dysentery and ulcers on both legs. He also bought food for sick men out of his own money."

2 Lt.

Hood. Frank.

179492

6HAA 3bty

Birmingham.

19.9.13

Father: Charles Ernest. Mother: Anise. Mr. F. Hood, 15 St. Lawrence Rd, Northfield, Birmingham. Enlisted: 6.9.39. Captured 15.2.42. Released 30.8.45. Camps: Saigon Apr 42 – 22 June 43.Lt Col Hugonin. No 4 Group Thailand (Kinsaiyok) 1July 43. Lt Col Knights. Various camps -15 Aug 45. Escape attempts: Gnr. Baxter,Gnr Cassidy 3 HAA. Executed by Kempi, Cholon, Saigon. (information from Jap commander) Sabotage: Minor sabotage of M.T. & wastage of gasolene etc on Saigon docks.

2 Lt.

Weare. Peter George

172830

3HAA 29bty

Crawley.

19.3.12

Origin: Stanmore. Father: Lewis Alfred. Mother: Hilda Maud. Mrs. P. G. Weare, 16 Station Rd., Crawley, Sussex. Also: 73 Hazelwick Rd., Addiscombe, Croydon, Surrey. Enlisted Nov. 38. Captured 15.2.42. Released 30.8.45. Camps: Changi 15.2.42 - 4.4.42. Saigon 10.4.42 - 22.6.43 Lt. Col. Hugonin. Kinsaiyok 1.7.43. Krian Krai

Tonchan Tha Muang Kanchanaburi. No dates given. Sabotage: At Saigon every working party in the docks and locality destroyed vast quantites of petrol by running it away or putting sand in each drum to the extent of thousands of drums. Almost everything handled was tampered with in some way or other. Guns were rendered temporarily unserviceable by the removal of sights, breeches and mechanisms etc. Courageous acts: Gunner Bancroft 3HAA RA repeatedly left the camp at night, journeying to Saigon to fetch drugs and other essential items, knowing his life was at stake if caught.

RSM.

Thompson. Herman

141955

3HAA

Pittsmore.

6.4.02

Father: William Henry. Mr. W. H. Thompson, 25 Baretta St., Pittsmoor, Sheffield. Captured 15.2.42. Released 30.8.45. No questionnaire completed. From Sgt. D. Kelley: Escape committees: RSM Thompson, Sgt Kelley D, Sgt Shand 3HAA Saigon June 43. L/Sgt Rudd, Sgt Salter, 5 Searchlight Saigon June 43. In the event of allied troops getting close to us we were going to take 19 men apiece, break camp and make our way to the allied lines doing whatever sabotage we could on the way.

WO2.

Grover. Arthur Henry.

1018136

5 S/L 13bty

Westliff on Sea

29.6.01

BSM. Origin: London. Father: William. Mother: Ellen. Mrs. Grover, 4 Eastwick Rd, Westcliff on Sea, Essex. Also 53 Porters Grange Ave, Southend on Sea, Essex. Enlisted 3.10.20. Captured 15.2.42. Released 4.9.45. Camps: Saigon 10.4.42. Lt. Col. Hugonin. No. 2 Jungle camp Thailand. 28.6.43. Lt. Col. Hugonin. Kinsaiyok 4.10.43. Lt. Col. Lilley. Sherwood Forresters. Tha Muang 21.3.44. Lt. Col. Knights. Samijai ? 18.10.44 Maj Green RA. Nakom Nai. 20.4.45. RSM Stimson. RA. Sabotage: At Saigon docks, removed breeches from guns and threw them into the sea. Removed valves and nuts from 2000 bicycles and punctured them. Ammunition dumped in the sea. Rendered vehicles as useless as possible wherever the possibility arose.

WO2.

Foster. Frank Edward.

1424477

3 HAA 11bty

Bearsted.

24.10.04

BSM. Origin: Plumstead.

Father: Edward. Mother: Charlotte. Mrs. E. Foster, "Roundwell", Bearsted, Maidstone, Kent. Enlisted 2.1.23 Captured 15.2.42. Camps: Changi 15.2.42 - 4.4.42 Gen Percival. Saigon 10.4.42 - 22.6.43 Lt. Col. Hugonin. Kinsaiyok 2. 27.6.43 - 17.7.43 Lt. Col. Hugonin. Kinsaiyok 17.7.43 - 31.7.43. Lt. Col. Lilley. Krian Krai 1.8.43 - 11.12.43. Capt. Hands Tarsao 2.12.43 - 19.4.44 Lt. Col. Dunlop. Nakom Paton 19.4.44 - 29.7.44 Lt. Col. Coates. Tamuang 29.7.44 - 30.5.45. Lt. Col. Knight Pratchai 30.5.45 - 16.8.45 RSM Christopher. Escape attempts: Baxter and Cassidy. Extracted from the diary of Major Close, Camp interpreter, Saigon: 9th June 1942 Saigon: In retaliation for the escape of Gnrs Baxter and Cassidy, Sgt Doherty, along with Sgt Mason, was placed on 5 days reduced rations. On 10th June Lt. Tegetmeier, BSM Foster, Sgts Doherty and Mason were locked up in a tiny store. ** to add information from E. Goff**

WO2.

Mitchell. Archibald Gardner P.

1058454

5 S/L 13bty

Rothesay.

24.10.08

Troop Sgt. Major. Origin: Glasgow. Father: Alexander MacDonald Mitchell. Mother: Mary Story Peterson Mitchell. Mrs. A. G. P. Mitchell, 10 Mansfield Place, Rothesay, Bute, Scotland. Enlisted 24.8.24. Captured 15.2.42. Released 30.8.45. Camps: Changi 15.2.42 – 4.4.42. Saigon dock camp 10.4.42 – 22.6.43. Lt. Col. Hugonin. No.2 Jungle camp. Kinsaiyok. 1.7.43 Lt. Col. Hugonin. Krain Krai 8.8.43 Tarsoe hospital 9.12.43 Lt. Col. Dunlop AAMC Chungkai hospital 16.1.44 Lt. Col. Outram. Pratchai – 7.45 RSM Christopher. Escapes: Bdr. Baxter & Gnr Cassidy. Sabotage: Saigon camp – parties sent to work in rubber plantation, moving and stacking petrol. I, and others, loosened petrol bungs and allowed petrol to run away. Japanese sergeant (name unknown) said we were responsible for the loss of thousands of gallons. Other matters: Sgt. Salter, 13/5S/L, now deceased, took dial lights and sight clinometers off 25 pdr gun/How & threw them in the Saigon river.

S.Sgt.

Alger. Thomas Clifford George

1061766

3 HAA 29bty

Cheshunt.

2.10.9

BQMS. Origin: Thetford. Father: Arthur Collingford. Mother: Elizabeth Martha. Mr. A C Alger, River Cottage, Halfhide Lane, Cheshunt, Herts.

Enlisted 29.4.25. Captured 15.2.42. Released 30.8.45. Camps: Saigon 10.4.42 22.6.43. Chungkai Aug 43 – May 44. Tamuang May 44 – June 45. Pratchai June – Aug 45. Sabotage: “At Saigon, during the last quarter of 1942 I removed and disposed of 3 gun firing mechanisms. With other members of my unit I burst drums of petrol causing considerable wastage. A convoy of 20 vehicles had sugar put in their petrol tanks and steel nuts in gear boxes.”

S.Sgt.

Jeapes.Reginald Doug

866440

RHQ 6HAA

Dartford.

27.3.13

Origin: Catford. Father: Arthur Thomas. Mrs. R. Jeapes, 3 Monkreed Villas, Longfield Hill, Nr. Dartford, Kent. Enlisted 24.3.37 Captured 15.2.42. Released 14.9.45. Camps: Changi 15.2.42 - 4.4.42 Saigon 10.4.42 - 24.6.43 Lt. Col. Hugonin. Kinsaiyok 30.6.43 - 10.2.44 Lt. Col. Hugonin. Tamuang 12.2.44 - 24.6.44. River Valley. 29.6.44 - 4.9.44 Sakata 10.10.44 - 13.9.45. Capt. Pierce. RA. Survived sinking of Kachidoki Maru. Escape attempts: Escape, in my opinion, was not possible chiefly owing to colour, language. Any man caught was executed - eg. Baxter & Cassidy. Sabotage: All personnel at Saigon did everything possible to sabotage enemy war effort. Aircraft on the docks were constantly being damaged. Other matters: The attitude of Col. Hugonin RA with the Japs was magnificent. He hindered them at every step, where possible using them to the advantage of his troops.

S.Sgt.

Veitch. Donald William

1412423

3HAA

Drymen.

19.8.02

Father: John. Mrs. J. Veitch, Balman Rd., Drymen, Stirling, Scotland. Also 63 Adelaide Terrace, Benwell, Newcastle - on - Tyne. Enlisted 3.4.17. Captured 15.2.42. Released 6.9.45. Camps: Saigon 1942 - 43. Lt. Col. Hugonin. RA. Kinsaiyok No 2 Jungle camp. 1943. Lt. Col. Hugonin. Tha Soe 1943. Chungkai 1944. Nakom Patom 1945. 295km. Burma border. No further information given.

From Captain Ligertwood 3HAA: Japanese 9" siege gun in Saigon dock godown rendered unserviceable by Staff Sergeant Artificer Veitch, 3HAA Regt RA in 1942. He removed protective packing and covering from the breech at the piece and removed essential pieces of the firing mechanism and threw them into the Saigon river. He then replaced the packing and cover of the piece which was subsequesntly shipped away by Japanese without discovery of the sabotage.

S.Sgt.

Watson. William Edward

1068050

3HAA 11bty

Warminster.

6.2.44 At Tarsoe. C.Beri beri

37 1.10.06

Kan 4 E 6

BQMS. Origin: London. Mrs. S. Watson, 32 Pinecroft Lane, Warminster, Wilts.

Sgt.

Barrow. Walter.

843806

3 HAA 11bty

Leeds.

22.9.10

Mother: Mary Jane Rockliffe, 3 Sheldons Yard, Woodhouse Hill Road, Hunslet, Leeds 10. Also, 56 Church St., Hunslet, Leeds, Yorks. Enlisted 4.2.35. Captured 15.2.42. Rel. 4.9.45. Camps: Saigon FIC 14.4.42 - 22.6.43 Lt. Col. Hugonin. Kinsaiyok No. 2 July - Aug 43. " " " Kriang Krai Aug - Dec 43. Capt. Hand AIF. Tarso (Hospital) Dec 43 - Apr 44. Lt. Col. Harvey RAMC. Tamuang Apr 44 - May 45. Lt. Col. Knight, Royal Norfolk. Nakom Yai. May - Aug 45. RSM Stimpson RA. No other information given.

Sgt.

Booton. James William

5378606

6 HAA 3bty

Wolverhampton.

10.10.08

Mother: Lily Rosetta. Mrs. L. R. Booton, 51 Thompson Ave., Wolverhampton, Staffs. Captured 15.2.42. Released 4.9.45.

Sgt.

Bridges. Alfred Edward

4385140

3 HAA 11bty

Marske-by-Sea

9.1.44 at Tha Sao Beri beri.

Pnuemonia

37 7.6.07

Kan. 4.D 67

Origin, Portsmouth. Father: Alfred. Mother: Edith Mabel. Wife: Edith Ann. Mrs. E. M. Bridges, 70 High Street, Marske by Sea, Redcar, Yorks.

Sgt.

Doherty. James Nicol Currie

843483

3 HAA 29bty

Innerleithan.

15.8.45 at Mergui Rd

31 18.6.14

Kan. 6 F 53

Father: Andrew. Mother: Robina (nee Brunton). Mrs. R. Stewart, 7 Church St, Innerleithan, Peebleshire. Extracted from the diary of Major Close, Camp interpreter, Saigon: 9th June 1942 Saigon: In retaliation for the escape of Gnrs Baxter and Cassidy, Sgt Doherty, along with Sgt Mason, was placed on 5 days reduced rations. On 10th June Lt. Tegetmeier, BSM Foster, Sgts Doherty and Mason were locked up in a tiny store.

Sgt.

Foulkes. Kenneth

828643

6 HAA 3bty

Kingston.

12.9.44 Kachidoki Maru

29 25.3.15

Singapore Memorial Col. 5

Origin: Abergavenny. Father: James Edwin. Mother: Janet Catherine. Wife: Elsa May. Mrs. K. Foulkes, 37 Avenue Rd., Kingston on Thames, Surrey.

Sgt.

Hatter. Walter Allwood.

781576

6 HAA 3bty

Southsea.

12.9.44 at sea

35 10.9.09

Singapore Memorial Col. 5

Origin: Handsworth, Yorks. Father: Frank. Mother: Ethel. Wife: Dorothy Victoria. 219 Westfield Rd, Southsea, Hants.

Sgt.

Holding. Frederick Norman.

1066636

3 HAA 11bty

Lichfield.

26.4.06

Origin: Birmingham. Father: Fred Charles. Mother: Alice. Mrs. J. Holding, 27 Stoick Hay Lane, Hammerwich, Nr. Lichfield, Staffs. Also: 1 Sandford St., Lichfield, Staffs. Enlisted 5.3.26. Captured 15.2.42. Released 4.9.45. Camps: Saigon 10.4.42. Lt. Col. Hugonin. Chungkai 21.8.43. Col. Barrett. Tamuang 5.5.44. Lt. Col. Harvey. Nakom Patom 5.10.44. Col. Coates. Nakom Nai 9.4.45. Col. Barrett. Escape attempts: Baxter and Cassidy 3HAA escaped from Saigon. They were recaptured 15 miles from Saigon and sent back to camp. Taken away without food and water to prison and executed and buried at Saigon cemetery. Sabotage: At Saigon docks sabotage of petrol, field guns, small arms ammunition, food stocks and stores.

Sgt.

Jeapes.Reginald Doug

866440

RHQ 6HAA

Dartford.

27.3.13

Origin: Catford. Father: Arthur Thomas. Mrs. R. Jeapes, 3 Monkreed Villas, Longfield Hill, Nr. Dartford, Kent. Captured 15.2.42. Released 14.9.45. *** needs to be moved. Rank S/Sgt

Sgt.

Kelley. Dennis.

845436

3HAA 11bty

Oldham.

30.12.16

Father: James. Mrs M. Farragher. 1 Marsden St., Oldham, Lancs. Also: 5 Miners St., Oldham, Lancs. Enlisted 19.3.35. Captured 15.2.42. Released 30.8.45.

Camps: Changi 17.2.42. Saigon 4.3.42. Lt. Col Hugonin/Lt Weir RA. Kinsaiyok 1.7.43. “ “ “ “ Tarso 20.9.43. Lt. Col. Harvey RA/Lt Col Hugonin. Tamuang 24.6.44. Lt. Col Knight. Tamajo – 10.44. Major White/Sgt D. Kelley. Tamuang – 12.44. Lt. Col. Knight/Lt. Col Hugonin. Pratchai 1.6.45. RSM Christopher/BSM Foster. Escapes: Bdr Baxter & Gnr Cassidy referred to and details given re return and execution as is already known. Escape committees: RSM Thompson, Sgt Kelley D, Sgt Shand 3HAA Saigon June 43. L/Sgt Rudd, Sgt Salter, 5 Searchlight Saigon June 43. In the event of allied troops getting close to us we were going to take 19 men apiece, break camp and make our way to the allied lines doing whatever sabotage we could on the way. “Saigon 17.2.42 until July 43 everyone in camp did al they could against the enemy by stealing supplies of all descriptions, damaging war matierials, oosening the bungs in barrels of petrol and oil. We had excellent opportunity of doing this as we were working on the Saigon docks on war materials of every description.” Courageous acts: Lt Hughett, Sgt Stoddard, Sgt Heald, Sgt White, Usa, Gnr Bancroft 3HAA, repeatedly broke camp at night to bring in medical supplies from the French.

Sgt.

Lee. Valentine.

838733

3HAA 11bty

Gateshead.

13.2.18

Origin: South Gosforth. Newcastle/Tyne. Father: Valentine. Mother: Lilian. Mr. V. Lee, 73 Cooper St., Sunderland Rd, Gateshead, Co. Durham. Enlisted: 18.7.34. Captured 15.2.42. Released 12.9.45. Camps: Changi 15.2.42 - 4.4.42 Lt. Col. Hugonin. Saigon 5.4.42 - 22.6.43. Lt. Col. Hugonin. Kinsaiyok 23.6.43 - 1.8.43. Lt. Col. Hugonin. Krian Krai 2.8.43 - 12.12.43. Capt. Hands AIF. Tha Soe 13.12.43 - 2.2.44. Col. Knights. Royal Norholks. Nakom Patom. 3.2.44 - 28.8.44. Col. Sainter I.A. Singapore 28.8.44 - 10.9.44. Major Sikins RA. Puloh Dam 11.9.44 - 26.11.44 Singapore 26.11.44 - 2.2.45. Major Sikins. Escapes: Brs Baxter and Gnr Cassidy, both of 3HAA. (Camp - Rue Jean Eudell, Saigon) attempted to escape about June 1942. They were apprehended by Japs 30 miles from Saigon, brought back to camp for 2 days and then removed to Cholon prison. This was confirmed by 5 Americans who were in prison and later brought to our camp. Later the Jap commandant informed Lt. Col. Hugonin that they had been found guilty by courts martial and executed. This collaborated the information given by Annamites that 2 Englishmen had been executed. 2 graves were in Saigon cemetery, the alleged graves of the 2 men. Sabotage: Saigon docks, working p[arties were at all times ready to throw anything that would sink into the river. Also successfully emptied barrel after barrel of aviation spirit and petrol by the simple method of loosening the bung and allowing it to seep out during the night. When loading railroad trucks the drill was to loosen the bungs of the back rows of drums and turn them upside down. Usually this meant that about 8 barrels of spirit were definitely emptied on each truck. Another method was to try and cover up any damaged drums and stack them to allow to empty.

Sgt Lee gave a false date of birth to join he army underage. He was 15 years 11 months old and gave his date of birth as 1916 to enable him to enlist 2 years early.

Sgt.

Mason. Edward Leonard.

842677

3HAA

Slough.

29.7.14 30.7.14

Origin: Datchet, Bucks. Father: John. Mother: Mary. Mrs. M. Mason, 33 Lodgefield Cottage, Ditton Rd, Datchet, Slough, Bucks. Enlisted 3.1.35 Captured 15.2.42. Released 30.8.45. Camps: Changi 15.2.42 – 4.4.42 Saigon 10.4.42 – 22.6.43 Lt. Col. Hugonin. Kinsaiyok Jungle Camp & Kisaiyok 2. July 43. Krian Krai Aug 43 – Dec 43 Maj McWade. Tonchan Dec 43 – Mar 44. Tamuang Mar 44 – Mar 45 Lt. Col. Knights. Nakom Nayok Mar 45 – May 45 RSM Stimpson. Marching June 45 – Aug 45 Master Gunner Brown 9 Coast Regt. Escapes: Bdr Baxter & Gnd Cassidy 3HAA. Whilst at Saigon the above attempted to escape. They were apprehended by japs, returned to camp a day later and then moved from camp the following day. Believed tohave been executed and buried in cemetery in Saigon. From the diary of Major Close, Camp interpreter, Saigon: 9th June 1942 Sgt Mason, along with Sgt Doherty placed on 5 days reduced rations in retailiation for the escape of Gnrs Baxter & Cassidy. On 10th June both Sgts along with Lt. Tegetmeier & BSM Foster were locked up in a small store.

Sgt.

Mitchell. Robert Alexander.

798659

6HAA 3bty

Castleford.

25.4.11

Origin: Cockermouth. Mother: Ellen. Mrs. R. Mitchell, 71 West Fields, Cutsyke, Castleford, Yorks. Enlisted 16.1.30. & 2.9.39. Captured 15.2.42. Released 1.9.45. Camps: Changi 15.2.42 – 4.4.42 Saigon 10.4.42 – 22.6.43. Lt. Col. Hugonin. Tha Soe hospital Aug 43 Lt. Col. Lilley. Chungkai Aug 43 – Apr 44 Lt. Col. Outram. Tha Muang Apr 44 – June 45 Lt. Col. Knight. Pratchai June 45 – Aug 45 RSM Christoper. Organisers of escape/resistance: RSM Thompson 3HAA, Saigon 1942. Q: Do you know anything of their plans? A: If we should leave Saigon by ship, to overpower the crew. Sabotage: Removed screw caps off 50 gallon drums of aviation petrol and oil, airfield Saigon. Removed dial sights from our own guns which had been brought from Singapore. Removed split pins and washers from railway trucks travelling between Saigon and Hanoi. Looted medical stores from godowns for our own use – Saigon docks.

Sgt.

Newcombe. Stanley Hubert.

819125

6HAA 3bty

Cheltenham.

15.8.12

Origin: Stow on the Wold. Mother: Helen Ada. Mrs S H Newcombe, 2 Cotswold Cottages, Leckhampton Hill, Cheltenham. Enlisted 15.2.32. Captured 15.2.42. Released 30.8.45. Camps: Changi 15.2.42 – 4.4.42 Lt. Col. Holmes. 1/Manchesters. Saigon10.4.42 – 22.6.43 Lt. Col. Hugonin RA. Kinsaiyok Jun 43 – Feb 44 Lt. Col. Hugonin. Tha Muang Feb 44 – Nov 44 Lt. Col. Knights Royal Norfolks. Tamajo Nov 44 – Jan 45 Maj. White? Nakom Paton Jan 45 – Apr 45 Lt. Col. Coates AMC. Mergui Apr 45 – Aug 45 Maj. Bennett RAMC. No further information given.

Sgt.

Newland. Edward Thomas.

826388

5 S/L 13bty

York.

12.9.44. Kachidoki Maru

.

30 12.8.14

Singapore memorial Col. 5

Father: Charles. Mr. W. C. Newland, 16 Huntingdon Rd, York.

Sgt.

Potter. Frederick James.

824195

5 S/L 13bty

Dalston

12.9.44. Kachidoki Maru.

27 24.4.18

Singapore memorial Col. 5

Origin: Bideford. Mrs. S. Goodwin, The Lodge, School for Girls, Hereford Rd, Monmouth, Mon.

Sgt.

Rampton. Wilfred Charles.

835643

3HAA 11bty

Pamber Heath.

9.12.43 at Tarsoe hospital

camp. Dysentery.

Malaria

26 31.5.13

Kan. 4. D 25

Origin: Jersey. Father: Charles. Mother: Alice. Mr. C. Rampton, Pember Heath, Basingstoke, Hants.

Sgt.

Roberts. Wilfred John Henry

820369

3HAA 30bty

Tooting

9.4.44 at Chungkai Pellagra,

Ankylostomiasis, Lacublia.

24.10.15

Chungkai 1 B 7

Father: Wilfred. Mother: Mary. Mr. W. Roberts, 52 Welham Rd, Tooting, London SW17. From ‘The Unwanted Guests’, Gnr W. E. Johnson: Sergeant Roberts immediately told me, as line gunner, to take out the important parts of the gun and so render it unserviceable. It had been such hard work the day before as we had only arrived at the beach at the back of Malay headquarters and instead of sandbagging around our Beaufort gun the Sergeant, that is Sergeant Roberts, said we had got to dig a pit around the gun gradually lowering it as we went. The digging took all night. We took it in turns to dig. I was given the job of making tea to keep my fellow gunners warm. At last dawn came and we had some breakfast which I prepared out of tins. Through the day we had our share of bombing from high level and also dive bombers. It was at 4pm we were firing away when the red cap shouted to us to cease fire. Sergeant Roberts and Sergeant Dolphin took us into town. There was a boat waiting already with rations aboard so

that we could escape from the island. We arrived at the position where the boat should have been mored but, alas, it had gone. The sergeants were furious, the Major and Captain had got there first and had not waited for us.

Sgt.

Salter. Frederick Hobbs

860971

5 S/L 13bty

Sidmouth

23.10.43 at Tarsoe

Chron.debility, femoral

thrombosis

23 29.10.18

Kan. 4 C 34

Father: Albert. Mother: Annie Maud. Mr. A. Salter, 173 Manstone Ave, Sidmouth, Devon. From Lt. Gibbins: Sgt. Salter removed the firing mechanisms from 25 pdr guns stored in Saigon docks. Threw some in the sea and brought one back to the camp at the risk of 2 searches. Later discovered dismantling same by Jap sentry. Appeared that it was a clock. Satisfied the Jap. From Sgt Holt: Sgt. Salter, 3HAA, at Saigon about Jan 43 removed the firing gear from a siege gun in transit. He was unable to dispose of it as early as usual and therefore had to bring it back to the camp wrapped in a sack under his arm, having to risk a search when passing the Jap guard rooms. He was successful in getting it in and it was buried in camp. From Troop Sgt. Major Mitchell: Sgt. Salter, 13/5S/L, now deceased, took dial lights and sight clinometers off 25 pdr gun/How & threw them in the Saigon river.

Sgt.

Shand. John.

2818834

3HAA 29bty

Mill of Buckie.

10.5.16

Origin: Huntley, Aberdeen. Father: William. Mother: Margaret. Mr. W. Shand, Mill of Buckie, Banffshire, Scotland. Also: Slackhead Enzie, Buckie, Banffs, Scotland. Enlisted 2.12.35 Captured 15.2.42. Released 4.9.45. Camps: Changi 15.2.42 - 4.4.42. Saigon 10.4.42 - 22.6.43. Kinsaiyok 30.6.43 - Aug 43. Krian Krai Aug 43 - Nov 43. Tampi Nov 43 - Dec 43. Tonchan to April 1944. Tha Muang Apr 44- Apr 45. Nakom Nayok Apr - Aug 45. Escape attempts: Baxter and Casidy. Sabotage: A large amount of sabotage was done by POWs while doing dock work at Saigon, ie petrol was made to escape, sanded, all types of mechanical vehicles were damaged whenever opportunity permitted. Foodstuffs were tampered with; parts were removed from guns which were captured at Singapore. Stores were stolen and thrown in the river Mekong. A great part of this was due to the example set by Col. Hugonin. Courageous acts: At Kinsaiyok jungle camp, as the result of a severe beating up, Lt. Broadbent, RA, was made to move a huge rock over the side of a precipice. In doing so, he fell over the side, followed by rock. Bdrs. Trainer and Soulsby, without a moment's hesitation as to their own personal risk or consequences, jumped over the side and saved Lt. Broadbent from certain death by pulling him clear of the rock. As a result of this Bdr Trainer was an invalid for the remainder of his time as a POW due to a cut which turned into an ulcer. Approx date 20.7.43.

Sgt.

Shattock. Walter Benjamin

1057377

6HAA 3bty

Farnborough.

7.5.08

Origin Plymouth. Father: James. Mother: Alice. Mrs. A. Shattock, 6 Prospect Cottages, Pratts Bottom, Farnborough, Hants. Enlisted 27.5.24. Captured 15.2.42. Released 30.8.45. Camps: Changi 15.2.42 - 4.4.42. Saigon 10.4.42 - 22.6.43. Thailand (various camps on the railway) June 43 - Aug 45. Sabotage: Sabotage of our own guns brought to Saigon was general, as was sabotage of petrol. Courageous acts: Lt. George 3HAA at Saigon, looked after us conscientiously during the whole of POW life.

Sgt.

Simpson. Joseph

872524

3HAA 30bty

Huddersfield.

8.11.43 at Chungkai

Polyavitaminosis

29 18.9.14

Chungkai 6 H 9

Mrs. B. Connolly, 60 Fairfield Rd., Almondbury, Huddersfield. Yorks.

Sgt.

Smith. Harold Victor

808799

6HAA 3bty

Pontygwaith.

25.3.11

Father: John. Mrs. H. V. Smith, 58 The Avenue, Pontygwaith, Rhondda, Glam. Enlisted 24.1.31. Captured 15.2.42. Released 1.9.45. Camps: Changi 15.2.42 - 4.4.42. Saigon 10.4.42 - 22.6.43. Lt. Col. Hugonin. Kinsaiyok No. 2 30.6.43 - 1.8.43 Lt. Col. Hugonin. Krian Krai 10.8.43 - 30.11.43. Capt. Hands. A.I.F. Tha Soe 30.11.43 - 30.5.44 Lt. Col. Knights. Tha Muang 1.6.44 - 1.9.44. Lt. Col. Knights. 229 Kilo camp 1.10.44 - 1.1.45. Major Marsh RASC. Tha Muang 1.1.45 - 1.6.45. RSM Christoper. Escae attempts: Gnr Cassidy and Bdr Baxter. Sabotage: Whilst working in Saigon docks, busted petrol and oil barrels, put in sand, damaged lorries and aeroplanes, dumped ammunition into the river. Courageous acts: Lt.Col. Hugonin, beaten and put against a tree with Korean guard threatening to bayonet him, he said to the guard "you haven't the guts to do it". Six Indian officers, refusing to join I.N. army in Oct 1944. Other matters: Officers were put in charge of working parties, beaten if work wasn't being done fast enough or if men couldn't work hard enough.

Sgt.

Stennings. Stanley Robert.

814431

5 S/L 13bty

Sidcup.

27.1.14

Origin: Pimlico. Father: Arthur Stanley. Mother: Daisy Jane. Mr A. S. Stenning, 4 Clifton Rd., Sidcup, Kent. Enlisted 10.2.36 Captured 15.2.42. Released 4.9.45. Camps: Changi (Southern area) 17.2.42 - 4.4.42 Brig. A.W.C. Wildey. Saigon 10.4.42 - 22.6.43 Lt. Col. Hugonin. Kinsaiyok No.2 Thailand 1.7.43 - 15.8.43 Lt. Col. Hugonin. Tha Soe (hospital) 20.8.43 - 19.1.44 Lt. Col. Harvey RAMC Chungkai 20.1.44 - 22.5.44 Lt. Col. H C Outram RA. Tha Muang 22.5.44 - 4.11.44 Lt. Col. A E Knights, Royal Norfolks. Nam Cham Yai 5.11.44 - 31.12.44 Maj. H J Marsh, RASC. Tha Muang 1.1.45 - 7.4.45 RSM V. Christoper RA. Nakom Nai 13.4.45 - 17.8.45 RSM Stimson. Escapes: Bdr. Baxter & Gnr. Cassidy. Sabotage: Whilst at Saigon, FIC, working in the docks I and some of my comrades removed parts of various types of British guns, which had been captured intact. Generally, we removed and buried the firing mechanism. Several of the following types were thus rendered useless: 25pdr, 3.7AA, Bofors and 3pdrs A/T. In addition, on every possible occasion whilst working in petrol dumps, we wasted gallons of aviation and other spirit.

Sgt.

Storr. Charles.

847117

6HAA 3bty

Sheffield.

31.1.14

Origin: Grimsby. Father: William. Mother: Edith. Mrs. C. Storr, 54 Grove St., Pittsmore, Sheffield. Enlisted 15.5.35 Captured 15.2.42. Released 4.9.45. Camps: Changi 15.2.42 - 4.4.42 Saigon 10.4.42 - 22.6.43. Lt. Col. Hugonin. Kinsaiyok June 43 - Aug 43 Lt. Col. Hugonin. Tha Muang 1943 - 1944 Lt. Col. Knight. Nakom Nai 1945 - release RSM Stimson. No further information given.

Sgt.

Sunderland. Cyril John

7354270

RAMC

Hanwell.

9.2.44 At Tarsoe Amoebic dysentery

33 19.6.09

Kan 4.E 18

Origin: Gillingham. Father: John Richardson Sunderland. Mother: Maud Lake Sunderland. Wife: Sylvia Maud. Mrs. S. M. Sunderland, 76 Oaklands Rd, Hanwell, London W7

Sgt. Wakely. Eric Lewes 2041035 5 S/L Hanworth. 6.12.11 Occupation: Wireman Electrician.

(known as 'Chick')

315bty

Mrs E L Wakely, 2 Amesbury Road, Hanworth, Middx. Captured 15.2.42. Released 30.8.45 Camps: Saigon - 4/42 - 4/43 - Lt. Col. Hugonin (F.E.Hugonin, OC. 3rd HAA Regiment RA) Kinsia (Kinsaiyok)/ Tamuan (Tamuang)/Chunki (Chungkai) - Lt. Col. Knights, OC. 4th Royal Norfolk Regiment. Takuri - 5/45 - 9/45 - RSM Smith (no details at present) Sabotage: Saigon work parties sabotaged petrol, oil, cement. Diptheria: Autumn 1942.

L. Sgt.

Barnard. Harry Reginald

819377

6HAA 3bty

Brentwood.

12.9.44 Kachidoki

Maru

33 3.11.10

Singapore Memorial Col. 6

Origin: Forest Gate. Mrs. H. R. Barnard, Church House, Kelvedon Common, Brentwood, Essex. Captured 15.2.42.

L. Sgt.

Beach. Richard Douglas.

843777

3 HAA 11bty

Haydon Bridge.

10.12.16

Mother: Mary Ann Spooner. Mrs M. A. Spooner, 4 Shaftoe St., Haydon Bridge, Northumberland. Also: 1 Park Stile, Haydon Bridge, Hexham, Northumberland. Enlisted 4.2.35. Captured 15.2.42. Released 30.8.45 Camps: Changi 15.2.42. Saigon 4.4.42 - 22.6.43. Lt. Col. Hugonin. Kinsaiyok 23.6.43 - 1.8.43. " " Klian Klai. 2.8.43 - 12.12.43. Capt Hands AIF> Tarso. 13.12.43 0 1.6.44. Lt. Col. Knight, Royal Norfolks. Tamuang 2.6.44 - 1.7.45 " " " Pratchai. 2.7.45 - 16.8.45. RSM Christopher. RA Escapes: Baxter & Cassidy. It was reported that they were picked up by the japs approx 30 miles from Saigon. Later reports state that they were seen in prison. Japanese camp commandant then reported to Lt. Col. Hugonin that they had been executed and that their bodies were in the French cemetery at Saigon. Sabotage: "At Saigon, I did as much damage as I could to arms and equipment. Stole medical kit and foods which I knew to be going to Jap troops." Courageous acts: Americans Sgt Stoddart & Sgt Heald, and South African Gnr Bancroft frequently broke out of Saigon POW camp and brought in through the wire valuable medical kit.

L. Sgt.

Bremner. John Lyon.

2056935

3 HAA 11bty

Aberdeen.

19.6.09

Corporal REME. Attached to 3HAA. Father: John. Mother: Annabella. Mr. J. Bremner, 39 Rosemount Place, Aberdeen. Enlisted 17.3.38. Captured 15.2.42. Released 30.8.45. Camps:

Saigon docks 10.4.42 - 22.6.43. Lt. Col Hugonin. Kinsaiyok 1.7.43 - 14.8.43. Lt. Col. Hugonin. Tarsao 14.8.43 - 27.4.44. Lt. Col. Knights. Tamuan 28.4.44 - 29.5.45. Lt. Col. Knights. Pratchai 1.6.45. RSM Christopher. Escape attempts: Baxter & Cassidy. Sabotage: Saigon - bursting of barrels of petrol and oil whilst unloading railway trucks and barges. Unscrewing bungs on barrels whilst stacking them or loading trains and barges.

L. Sgt.

Dolphin. William

851877

3HAA 30bty

Middlestone.

31.12.43 at Tha Soe

Malnutrition Beri beri

29 30.11.14

Kan 4 D 20

Father: Joseph. Mother: Sarah. Mrs. W. Dolphin, 46 Albion St., Middleton Moor, Nr. Spennymoor, Co. Durham. From ‘The Unwanted Guests’, Gnr W. E. Johnson: Sergeant Roberts immediately told me, as line gunner, to take out the important parts of the gun and so render it unserviceable. It had been such hard work the day before as we had only arrived at the beach at the back of Malay headquarters and instead of sandbagging around our Beaufort gun the Sergeant, that is Sergeant Roberts, said we had got to dig a pit around the gun gradually lowering it as we went. The digging took all night. We took it in turns to dig. I was given the job of making tea to keep my fellow gunners warm. At last dawn came and we had some breakfast which I prepared out of tins. Through the day we had our share of bombing from high level and also dive bombers. It was at 4pm we were firing away when the red cap shouted to us to cease fire. Sergeant Roberts and Sergeant Dolphin took us into town. There was a boat waiting already with rations aboard so that we could escape from the island. We arrived at the position where the boat should have been mored but, alas, it had gone. The sergeants were furious, the Major and Captain had got there first and had not waited for us.

L. Sgt.

Duffy. Martin James

850136

3HAA 29bty

Ashton-u-Lyne.

6.11.16

Origin: Hanley, Stoke on Trent. Mother: Mary. Mrs. M. Duffy, 174 Albemarle Terrace, Ashton under Lyne, Manchester. Also: 161 Old St., Ashton - u - Lyne, Manchester. Enlisted 10.8.35. Captured 15.2.42. Released 30.8.45. Camps: Changi 17/2/42 Lt. Gen. Percival Saigon 4/42 Lt. Col. Hugonin Thailand 6/43 " Nong Pladuk 6/43 " No. 1 Jungle Camp 6/43 " Kinsaiyok Hosp. 8/43 Major Collette = Corlette (Australian Medical Corps)* Tarsao Hosp 8/43 Lt. Col. Harvey (OC.197th Field Ambulance - RAMC) Konkuita 7/44 Lt. Col. MacKellar (NEED CONFIRMATION OF WHICH ONE) Tamuang Hosp 8/44 Lt. Co. Harvey Tamajau 10/44 Major White (need to check camp, suspect Tamarkan)

Tamuang Hosp 1/45 Lt. Col. Harvey Pratchai 6/45 W.O.1 Christopher (Royal Norfolks) Escapes: Baxter and Cassidy escaped at Saigon. They were given away by Annamese to the japs, brought back to camp with their hands tied behind their backs. Made to kneel onm ground outside jap office (no head dress in hot sun) for some hours. They were then taken away to be "tried". Later my CO (Lt. Col. Hugonin, RA) visited our part of the Cholon cemetery and saw two freshly dug graves. He made enquiries concerning the graves and was told by the japs that they belonged to the two men who attempted to escape. They had both been executed. Other matters: Lt. Balfour 3/6 HAA. Whilst at Tarsao 1943-44 this officer looked after the sick men of 3rd and 6th HAA Regiments like a mother. He gave all his clothing away to the sick, leaving himself just a towel around his middle and a pair of wooded clogs. Lt. Balfour had dysentery at this time and ulcers on both legs. He also bought food for sick men out of his own money. * mentioned in Weary Dunlop's book.

L. Sgt.

Finch. William John

6084861

5 S/L 315bty

Croydon.

11.5.13

Occupation: Bench Fitter 4 Russell Rd., Croydon, Surrey. Enlisted 19.10.37. Captured 15.2.42. Camps: Changi 17.2.42 - 4.4.42. Gen Percival. Saigon 10.4.42 - 22.6.43. Lt. Col. Hugonin. Thailand. 29.6.43 - 1.9.43. Various. Sabotage: I, in common with other men, seized every opportunity to sabotage jap war material whilst working on Saigon docks, i.e damage to vehicle engines, aircraft. Loosen taps on fuel barrels and throw ammunition in river.

L. Sgt. *****

Fitzgerald. Patrick.

6195827

6 HAA 3bty

Twickenham.

9.6.05

Mother: Helen. Mrs. P. Fitzgerald, 8 Gould Rd., Twickenham, Middx. Enlisted 16.8.23. Captured 15.2.42. Released 30.8.45. Camps: Changi 17.2.42 Saigon 10.4.42 Lt. Col. Hugonin. No 2 Thailand (Kinsaiyok) 9.5.43 Lt. Col Hugonin. Nakom Paton 12.6.44 Lt. Col. Coates. No further information given. **Entry needs moving. Repatriation questionnaire gives rank as Sgt. Close's nominal roll ranks as L/Sgt**

L. Sgt. Grant. Benjamin 853469 6 HAA Limerick. 8.1.17 Mother: Christina.

3bty

Mrs. C. Grant, 27 McDonagh Ave., Jamesborough, Limerick, Eire. Enlisted 25.1.35. Captured 15.2.42. Released 30.8.45. Camps: Changi 15.2.42 - 4.4.42. Maj. Gen Keith Simmonds. Saigon 4.4.42 - June 43. Lt. Col. Hugonin RA. No. 4 Group Siam. June 43 - April 45. Lt. Col. Knight. No 5 Group Siam. April 45 - 15.8.45. No further information given.

L. Sgt.

Hanley. Henry

842885

6 HAA 3bty

Gateshead.

22.7.17

Father: Harry. Mrs. H. Hanley, 4 Engine Cottages, Low Fell, Gateshead. Co. Durham. Enlisted 2.1.35. Captured 15.2.42. Released 14.9.45. Camps: Saigon Mar 42 - Jun 43. Lt. Col. Hugonin. Thailand 1943 - 44. Lt. Col. Knight. Singapore 2 months. Capt Pierce. Sakata Japan. Oct 44 - Aug 45. Capt Pierce. Escaoe attempts: Baxter and Cassidy. The French were helping these men to escape, but I believe they got a little impatient and left the camp a little too early. Caught, tortured and eventually executed. Sabotage: Loosened caps of oil drums. Threw ingots of lead and copper into the river, also hand grenades and small arms ammunition. Courageous acts: Lt. George, when in charge of working parties, would argue with the japs for the best conditions possible for the men under him. He would have struck one jap but the jap went off. He was always acting hostile towards japs.

L. Sgt.

Head. Frederick Maurice

2035224

5 S/L 315bty

Redhill.

7.8.45 at

Pratchapkirikan Cerebral malaria

29.10.15 35

Kan 6 F 40

Occupation: Stocktaker. Origin: Croydon. Father: Frederick William. Mother: Rebecca Wife: Eleanor Alice Maud.14 Redstone Park,Redhill, Surrey. Captured 15.2.42. Released 30.8.45 Diphtheria: Autumn 1942.

L. Sgt.

Henson. Sydney

850101

5 S/L 13bty

Melton Mowbray

8.11.16

Origin: Nottingham. Father: Alfred. Mother: Elizabeth. Black Horse Inn, Grimstone, Melton Mowbray, Leics. Enlisted 10.8.35 Captured 15.2.42. Released 12.9.45 Camps: Changi 15.2.42 - 10.4.42. Brigadier Wildey. Saigon FIC (No.1 Thailand camp) 15.4.42 - 22.6.43. Lt. Col. Hugonin. Kinsaiyok Thailand. 27.6.43 - 25.7.43. Lt. Col. Hugonin. Tarso 26.7.43 - 15.1.44. Col. Knight. Nakom Patom 16.1.44 - 8.7.44. Col Sainter. River Valley, Singapore. 14.7.44 - 15.1.45. Major Seking. Saigon and Annan 15.1.45 - 15.8.45. RSM Broadstreet.

No further information given.

L. Sgt.

Hodgkiss. Joseph.

3854105

3 HAA

Leigh.

7.1.14

Origin: Bolton. Mother: Emma. Mrs. E. Morley, 17 Howard St., Plank Lane, Leigh, Lancs. Also: 119 Plover Street, Bolton, Lancs. Enlisted 7.1.32. Captured 15.2.42. Released: 30.8.45. Camps: Changi 1942 Lt. Col. Hugonin. Saigon 1942 - 1943 Lt. Col. Hugonin. Kinsaiyok Jungle No. 2. 1943 Kinsaiyok. 1943. Takanun Hospital 1943. Krian Krai 1943. Capt. Headley. Tampi 1943. Capt. Headley. Tonchan 1943. Capt. Headley. Tamuang. 1944 - 45. Lt. Col. Knight. Pratchai 1945. RSM Christopher. Escape attempts: While at Saigon 2 men of 3HAA, Bdr Baxter and Gnr Cassidy, both of 29AA battery, escaped from the camp. They were brought back to the camp in a lorry. Both men were in a kneeling position with their hands tied behind them and secured to their ankles. My position at that time was camp messing sergeant. At approx 2300 hours I was ordered to make a bowl of gruel of rice flour and take it to the guard room as quickly as possible as Gnr Cassidy had collapsed. Prior to that, my orders from the Japs were that the prisoners were to receive no food. On reaching the guard room with the gruel, I was threatened by the Jap sentry, who refused to let me pass. Only after findingf the Jap works clerk, who spoke to the sentry, was I allowed in. Gnr Cassidy was lying on the floor in a very distressed condition. The MOs, Capt. McQuillan and Capt. McLoughlin, were attending to him. The floor was very muddy, and I noticed that Bdr Baxter was still tied in the same cruel position and, although in pain, it was forbidden to attend to him or give him food. The next day both were taken to Cholon jail, and about 6 weeks later we were informed that they had both been executed. Sabotage: While working on the docks at Saigon, unloading ammunition and guns captured at Singapore with Sgt. Hawthorn, of 3HAA Regt. RA, we ruined the sights and dials of guns and instruments. The bungs of oil drums were damaged. Sights and cases of grenades, ammo and dials were thrown into the seaby all POWs working on the docks. We honestly believe the Japs had no list of what the ships contained because, although the damage done was immense, nothing was said about it. Courageous acts: Several times at Saigon Lt. Hughett, USA Air Force, Staff Sgt Goddard, USA Air Force, and Gnr Purcell 3HAA, RA, climbed through the wire, made their way to a French café in Saigon, and returned with medical supplies and drugs for the hospital, saving many a life by doing so. Death would have been their lot if they had been caught.

L. Sgt.

Holt. Thomas

1045807

3 HAA 11bty

Wigan.

5.3.1900

Origin: Hendley Green. Mother: Ann. Mr. D. G. Holt, 6 Edghall Lane, Orrell, Wigan, Lancs. Also: Ellesmere House, Spring Bank, Pemberton, Wigan, Lancs. Enlisted 1.8.19 Captured 15.2.42. Released 4.9.45. Camps: Saigon Apr 42 - Jun 43. Lt. Col. Hugonin. Kinsaiyok June 43 - Sept 43. Lt. Col. Hugonin. Chungkai Sep 43 - June 44. Lt. Col. Outram. Nakom Patom June 44 - Dec 44. Lt. Col. Sainter. Tamuang Dec 44 - May 45. Lt. Col. Knight. Nakom Nai May 45 - Sep 45. RSM Stimson. Escape attempts: Baxter and Cassidy. Sabotage: Saigon 1942 and 1943. Puncturing oil drums and plane fuel containers. Removing and destroying vital parts of engines (plane and motor) machinery (ie. pivot, pins of guns, derricks, bridging equipment etc) Removing and destroying firing gears of enemy guns. Removing and destroying fuses from shells. Inserting foreign matter in oil drums etc. Courageous acts: Sgt. Salter, 3HAA, at Saigon about Jan 43 removed the firing gear from a siege gun in transit. He was unable to dispose of it as early as usual and therefore had to bring it back to the camp wrapped in a sack under his arm, having to risk a search when passing the Jap guard rooms. He was successful in getting it in and it was buried in camp. Other matters: At all times except when working on the railway, I found the Jap soldier keen on ensuring that the POW had something to eat at meal times when on all day working parties. Scores of times I have seen a Jap soldier share his meal with a POW who, for one reason or another, had been without. This does not apply to the Korean soldier.

L. Sgt.

Howe. Henry Daniel.

845970

5 S/L

Islington.

29.3.15.

Father: Henry Daniel. Mother: Kathleen. Mrs. H. D. How, 22 Storey St., Caledonian Rd, Kings Cross, London N. 1. Enlisted 7.3.35. Captured 15.2.42. Released 4.9.45. Camps: Changi 17.2.42 – 4.4.42. Saigon 6.4.42 – 22.6.43. Lt. Col.Hugonin. Kinsaiyok No.2. 22.6.42 – 14.8.43. Tarso15.8.43 – 6.4.44 Nakom Patom 7.4.44 – 20.9.44. Lt. Col Scinter IA. Tamuang 21.9.44 – 10.4.45. Lt. Col. Knights. Nakom Nai 11.4.45 – 17.8.45. RSM Simpson. No further information given.

L. Sgt.

Kear. Walter Dennis

847911

3HAA 29bty

East Ham.

8.7.17

Father: Walter James. Mother: Dorothy. Mr. J. Kear, 37 Stoke Rd., East Ham, London E6. Enlisted 16.7.35. Captured 15.2.42. No release date given. Camps: Changi V Block 15.2.42 – 14.4.42. Lt. Col. Hugonin. Saigon Dock Camp 21.4.42 – 14.6.43. “ “ “ Kinsaiyok 22.6.43 – 19.4.44 Lt. Col Hugonin. Tamuang 20.4.44 – 28.10.44 Lt. Col Knight. Tamajo 29.10.44 – 2.1.45. Major White. Tamuang 2.1.45 – 28.6.45. Lt. Col Knight. Nakom Nioxe 2.7.45 – 20.7.45. RSM Stimpson. Escapes: Refers to the escapes and executions of Baxter & Cassidy – full details on form No. 29132D) Sabotage: Refers to loosening caps of petrol drums and taking wires from motor & aerospace engines. Dumped materials in river when unloading barrels. From the questionnaire of L/Bdr Allan Ryall 6HAA: "After marching about 600 miles from Nakom Nayok we arrived at Pitsumloke on Aug 20th 1945. For past 3 days we were told by Thais that war was over. Sgt. Major Foster i/c party approached Jap Captain who said was was not over. Four hours later, with 3 other men, I slipped past Jap guards, through fence, and escaped to Thai police. Men were later fired upon attempting to leave camp. There were quite a number of extra guards on that night." Asked "Were you physically fit when you made these attempts?" he replied, "As fit as possible with the Japs." He stated that he was accompanied in this escape by L/Sgt Kear 3HAA.L/Sgt Williams. 3HAA. and Gnr. Garry 3bty 6 HAA, who remained with him until Rangoon and were probably on ship home by the time he was writing his questionnaire. He further said that during this period of freedom they were treated very well by Thai police at Pitsumloke. They met 2 British Commando Majors about 24th August. Japs refused to allow these 2 to visit camp. They were then taken to Bangkok under Thai police escort on 31st where they joined their own troops in Bangkok civil internment camp.

L. Sgt.

Lomas. Alfred

843801

3 HAA 11bty

Manchester.

12.9.44 Kachidoki Maru

28 3.4.16

Singapore Memorial. Col 6

Father: Percy. Mother: Mary. Mrs. M. Lomas, 6a Meldon Rd, Anson Estate, Longsight, Manchester.

L. Sgt.

Martin. Alfred John.

1427304

3HAA 29bty

Wood Green.

8.2.16

Father: Edward. Mother: Ellen. Mrs. E. Martin, 119 Nightingale Rd, Wood Green, London. Also 354 High Rd, Wood Green. N22. Enlisted 8.11.38. Captured 15.2.42. Released 4.9.45. Camps: Saigon dock camp. 10.4.42 - 20.6.43/ Lt. Col/ Hugonin. Thailand 1.7.43.

Escapes: Gnr Cassidy and Bdr Baxter of 3HAA Regt RA made an attempt to escape at Saigon. They were caught and beheaded, approx date 18.6.42. Japs admit execution.. Men buried in POW cemetery, Saigon. Sabotage: Working party Saigon - saboptage to lorries, planes, shipping, petrol, oil, machinery. Breech of jap guns thrown in river at Saigon.

L. Sgt.

McCormick. Robert Thompson

850373

3HAA 29bty

Oldham.

9.4.45 Train bombed

27 25.3.15

Kranji 25 E 8.

Father: James. Mother: Margaret. Mrs. M. McCormick, 38 Bramble Ave, Barrowshaw, Oldham, Lancs.

L. Sgt.

McLennan. Alexander Cameron.

843818

3HAA 11bty

Achnasheen.

8.6.17

Origin: Elgin. Mr. G. McLennan, 7 Londuth, by Achnasheen, Ross Shire, Scotland. Enlisted 7.2.35. Captured 15.2.42. Released 1.9.45. Camps: Saigon. Kluan Klai Jul 43. Tamuang 1 – 44 Takura 5 – 45 RSM Osborne.

L. Sgt.

Moore. Thomas.

4977174

5 S/L 316bty

Chesterfield.

21.12.21

Origin: Sheffield. Father: George Henry. Mother: Elizabeth. Mr. G. H. Moore, 59 Rayleigh Ave, Brinnington, Chesterfield, Derbyshire. Enlisted 19.6.39. Captured